Mexican rice is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that can elevate any meal. Packed with earthy spices, the heat of jalapeños, and a fresh squeeze of lime, this dish is both vibrant and satisfying. It’s the perfect accompaniment to chicken, beef, or even vegetarian dishes, making it a versatile addition to your dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or just craving something flavorful, this Mexican rice recipe is sure to impress.
The combination of cumin, peppers, and fresh cilantro makes each bite bursting with flavor, while the rice remains light and fluffy. Let’s dive into this simple yet mouthwatering Mexican rice recipe that will leave everyone asking for more!
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Rice Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with Flavor: The blend of spices, peppers, and cilantro creates a tasty and aromatic side.
- Versatile: Great for pairing with meats or even as a standalone dish for vegetarians.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the heat and flavors to suit your taste.
Mexican rice
Ingredients
- 200 g of basmati rice
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper deseeded and chopped (leave some slices for decoration)
- Olive oil for greasing
- 1 white onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- ½ tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of ground cumin
- 400 g of chopped tomatoes 1 tin
- 500 ml chicken broth or water with 1 chicken stock cube
- A handful of fresh coriander chopped
- ½ lime for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and drain the rice. Dice the red bell pepper and chop the jalapeño, reserving some slices for decoration. Peel and chop the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the fresh coriander.
- Cook the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic, frying until they become soft and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the Peppers and Rice: Stir in the red bell pepper and jalapeño, cooking for another 2 minutes. Add the rice to the pan, stir-frying it for about 2 minutes until it’s lightly toasted.
- Season and Add Liquids: Sprinkle the salt and cumin over the rice. Pour in the chopped tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check that the rice is cooked and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish and Serve: Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat. Plate the rice, garnish with fresh coriander, decorate with jalapeño slices, and squeeze lime juice over the top.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy your homemade Mexican rice as a vibrant side to your favorite dishes!
Notes
- Stir frequently to prevent rice from sticking.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a little water or broth.
- You can add raisins for a sweet twist or adjust the heat by modifying the amount of jalapeño.
Image courtesy of Yummy Recipes
Serving Suggestion
Mexican rice goes great with grilled meats like Mexican chicken drumsticks or beef fajitas. You can also pair it with a fresh avocado salad or make it part of a veggie platter with beans and salsa. For a fun twist, top it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream!
Customization/Variations
- Add Raisins: For a touch of sweetness, try adding a handful of raisins during the simmering stage.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of jalapeño or use a bell pepper instead.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but you can swap chicken broth for vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Herb Variations: Swap coriander for fresh parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.
Tips for Success
- Stir Frequently: To avoid the rice sticking to the pan, stir it occasionally while simmering.
- Don’t Skip the Lime: The lime adds a fresh, zesty finish that enhances the overall flavor.
- Perfect Texture: For fluffy rice, make sure to cover the pan while it simmers and let it rest before serving.
- Storage: Leftover rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
FAQs
- Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook. You’ll need to adjust the simmering time and use additional liquid to ensure the rice cooks properly. - Is this Mexican rice gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rice and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.
Final Note
This Mexican rice is a crowd-pleaser that will add a burst of flavor to any meal. It’s simple to make, yet so delicious that you’ll want to make it again and again. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a casual weeknight meal, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us – we’d love to see your take on this flavorful recipe!
Looking for More Easy Mexican-inspired Recipes?
Here are some must-try recipes that bring authentic Mexican vibes to your kitchen:
- Healthy Mexican Trader Joe’s Taco Bake Recipe
- Mexican Cabbage Recipe: Your Tacos’ New Best Friend
- Easy Mexican Roasted Potatoes Recipe
- Jiffy Mexican Cornbread Recipe
- Mexican Hot Chocolate (Chocolate Caliente)
- Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe
Give these recipes a try and bring the vibrant taste of Mexico to your table!
Tried This Recipe?
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